24,2015 | @THEHILLTOPHU | VOLUME 100 ISSUE 1
#HU19 IS HERE
CRYSTAL SMITH PHOTO EDITOR
Where are the pals? Bison Week? An update from the Pals.
Page 3
Remembering a Howard champion Louis Stokes Library’s namesake dies at 90.
Page 9
Clutch guide to Bison lingo Find out what jawn, darty and more mean!
minor setback for a major comeback Updates on HU’s football team.
Page 11
Page 15
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AUGUST 24, 2015
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THE HILLTOP
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CAMPUS.................................03
the social engineer.....................04
NEWS......................................06
#blacklivesmatter.......................08
VARIETY.................................10 Kylie & cornrows.........................10
SPORTS...................................14
women’s soccer update.............18
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CAMPUS
AUGUST 24, 2015
3
WHERE IS MY PAL PACK?
Devin Barnwell Campus Editor
T
he Campus Pals’ Freshmen Week, a well-established part of welcoming the incoming freshman class to their first year of college, is still an officially scheduled event for the class of 2019 according to Campus Pals president Lauren Owen. Despite rumors that the organization was banned from participation, Owen confirmed that the week has already been planned, and its exact date is to be announced by the Pals’ planning committee. “We are currently in the process of scheduling Freshmen Week for later in the semester,” Owen said. “This past week of events was a ‘Bison Week’ sponsored by the Office of Student Life and Activities, not the Pals.” At the end of last semester, the Campus Pals underwent a review by Student Affairs for the actions of members cited with undisclosed illicit activities as individuals. Specifically, they were put under an order of cease and desist, totally halting all business
operations within the organization. The order continued into summer semester. “We originally planned to have a free Freshmen Week including panels on majors and mental health, scholarship drawings, how to keep track of your spending etc,” Owen said. “This isn’t what we expected.” The Office of Student Life and Activities differentiated the Pals’ week from the Office of Student Life and Activities’ by not marketing the events under the title “Freshmen Week,” but instead calling it “Bison Week.” In an email from Lennon Jackson, Director for Student Life and Activities, it stated that the title switch was also intended to welcome incoming students that aren’t freshmen, such as transfers. Additionally, Bison Week included activities that Freshmen Week has never included, like the “Bison Urban Treasure Hunt,” which is a scavenger hunt around campus, and “The Evasons Mentalist Duo,” which is a hypnosis performance. Soon, questions arouse from Howard students on social media once the letter was sent. The letter also appeared in a screenshot
on Twitter late July and sparked response from Howard students. The hashtag, #Don’tLetHowardS tealTheExperience prompted direct tweets to President Wayne A.I. Frederick demanding Howard allow the Pals to hold their Freshmen Week events. Some students even began petitioning against administrative decision. “That’s when Student Life and Activities finally got back to us and said we could participate in Freshmen Week,” Owen said. “But when there’s only one week before school starts, we can only do so much.” According to Owen, the time spent evaluating members of the Campus Pals only halted their welcome week experience for freshmen, and was not an effective way to handle conflict in the organization. “Even though this happened in May, and we already had a theme, and our PR schedule for promoting, it all had to stop. Our organization planned
CRYSTAL SMITH PHOTO EDITOR
[Freshmen Week] professionally, and when an organization is placed on cease and desist, all of the business must cease, just stop,” Owen said. “It really just backfired, and the people you’re really affecting are these freshman.” The Office of Student Affairs was not able to be reached for comment on the issue. Further details concerning the schedule of Campus Pals Freshmen Week will be communicated to the student body by the Campus Pals organization per the continuation of fall semester.
INTERDISCIPLINARY BUILDING TO OPEN IN SEPTEMBER Beryl Kessio Staff Writer
S
itting on the corner of Georgia Ave and W Street is the brand new Interdisciplinary Research Building. The well crafted structure is shrouded in beautiful chrome accents and smooth glass panels. As of fall 2015, the completion of the building is more than a year past due. Executive Director for Campus Planning, Architecture and Development, Derrek Niec-Williams, says one of the primary reasons behind the delay was the problems the team faced building on a former petroleum filling station. “We had to do a lot of environmental remediation because it actually turned out that some of the
underground locksmiths storage tanks are installing that had stored final cords. A the gasoline for main priority is consumption had connecting the actually been building to campus breached at some facilities-primarily point in the past the university’s IT so it contaminated systems. the site,” Niec “We just Williams said. want to make sure There we have all the are a few tasks to proper fiber optics be completed so connections and that the building programming for can become the university’s IT fully operational department, and CRYSTAL SMITH PHOTO EDITOR according to Niecthat is an ongoing Williams. The building should receive a process,” Niec-Williams said. permanent receipt of occupancy before Setty Engineering, the firm responsible the end of this month and university for the construction, reported a project
timeline ending September 1st in the Content For Engineers LLC newsletter. Initially a part of former President Sidney A. Ribeau’s Academic Renewal initiative, the building was designed to enrich research and instructional environments. According to a January 2014 press release, the 8100 square foot building would “support and promote interdisciplinary research and educational collaboration.” The facility includes laboratories, classrooms, research areas and offices for students and faculty, as well as retail space. The project was green-lit with the intention to move the university into the forefront of research and to equip students with cutting-edge facilities while also staying true to the university’s sustainability mission.
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
THE SOCIAL ENGINEER:
JANEAL DYER
Zachary Johnson Staff Writer
b
efore the shooting of michael brown in august of 2014, freshman political science major clifton kinnie’s life
resembled that of a typical high school senior. However, he soon became one of the youngest activists on the scene to initiate action once protests erupted in Ferguson. “no one told us to protest,� kinnie said. “we
just did it. no one told us to do walk outs or do die-ins. we organized and did that too.� kinnie founded our destiny St. Louis, a collective of high school student
activists uniting against state sanctioned violence in response to the tragic event near his home town. the collective opened doors for young black men and women to discuss systemic racial violence and how to negotiate their own places in the struggle. in addition to his organization, the St. Louis native has been profiled on MTV, The atlantic magazine, the new yorker and the new york times. kinnie plans on continuing to work with his organization from Howard university’s campus. “Stokely carmichael, gloria Richardson, charles e. cobb jr.; those were some of the notable freedom fighters that inspired me to want to come to Howard.�
CAMPUS
CLIFTON KINNIE
kinnie said. “i’d like to be an educator, a lawyer, even a politician. anything that can help us.� even with the accolades kinnie has received, he has had his share of misfortunes. His mother died of breast cancer on july 16 and his father was an alcoholic. Still, kinnie remains wholly dedicated to uplifting others and making this a successful year at Howard. “i consider myself a survivor of St. Louis,� kinnie said. “i look at the class of 2019 and see so much potential in what we can and will accomplish. i’m excited about what will happen.�
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
NEWS
D.C. CRIME ON THE RISE :
Gabrielle Headly Staff Writer
I
n 2015, the D.C.’s homicide rate has increased by 34 percent. As of Aug. 19, there have been 446 violent crimes and 3,261 property crimes, according
2981 cases of theft in Howard University’s district alone. In contrast, there have only been 11 homicide cases and 120 assault cases, according to data from MPD. The 2015 reported crime incidents are 47.7 percent above the same time period in 2014 as of Indigo smith April 11, 2015, according to the Metropolitan Police Howard University’s Department. Department of Public Safety. Despite the amount of Jordan Dunham, a junior law violent crimes that have been and criminal justice major reported in the city, theft and heard about auto theft around robbery are most common campus and even witnessed his around Howard University’s colleagues being robbed. campus, which resides in the “You definitely have to third police district. There have be aware of your surroundings been 292 cases of robbery and when you go out to parties
Synthetic
Drug Use
In D.C. Yields Violent Results Kenneth Rose Staff Writer
A
spike in synthetic drug use is on a rise in the District with over 439 synthetic cannabinoid patient cases since June according to D.C. Police, D.C. Fire and the EMS Department. The Office of National Drug Control Policy stated that synthetic drugs can be any man-made chemicals that are added to plant material. “K2,” “Spice” and “Bath Salts” are among the more popular synthetic drugs in the District. “I believe [synthetic drugs]
haven’t quite hit Howard’s campus, but it can, without a doubt, spread extremely fast,” Tyra Trotman, a freshman biology major, said. Synthetic drug use has not only created an unsafe environment, but also poses a threat to those not knowledgeable of its affects. As Howard freshmen start to settle into their new home in D.C., the university is expressing concerns about synthetic drugs. When these chemicals react to the body, in theory, they are supposed to mimic the effect of the active chemical in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But unlike marijuana, synthetic drugs are becoming known for causing violent behavior among users. Several recent occurrences in D.C. exemplify
THEFT AND ROBBERY
INCREASE ON CAMPUS
or get something to eat late at night,” Dunham said. “If it don’t feel right, something isn’t right.” Factors for the crime uproar vary, but northeast local resident Bryant Strange believes that the heat and economic tensions are the sources to blame for the surge in crime. “The city is changing really rapidly,” Strange said. “All around the city, rents are going up. People are being forced out.” With police brutality around the country sparking outrage between law enforcement and African Americans, racial tensions in the D.C. area are a contributing source. “They’re mad -and I don’t think they should beat white people and they’re just frustrated,” Crystal Arinze, a senior, business communications said. “They
feel it’s because of the white man that they don’t get the same opportunities as other people, so they direct their anger at their own brothers.” Strange also attributes the various crimes to the spike in use of synthetic drugs in the District. “Mix that cocktail of synthetic drugs with the heat and your typical corner whino or homeless person becomes what I can best describe as a zombie,” he said. As a D.C. native, Arinze suggests that all students do their research before venturing out to certain places. “If you’re trying to tour or go places, make sure you’re with other people,” she said. “If you’re not from the area, don’t try to learn as you go. If you’re taking the train, make sure you know the time and line, and tell someone where you’re going.”
the violent results of synthetic drugs. On July 4, Kevin Sutherland, 24, was fatally stabbed around 30 to 40 times while riding the Metro train. The alleged attacker, Jasper Spires, 19, was believed to have been high on synthetic drugs during the attack, according to police reports. Loretta Hall, 48, openly admitted to being high on synthetic drugs when she turned herself into the police for stabbing a man to death in Southeast D.C. on June 13. Some Howard University students have witnessed the effects of synthetic drugs. “The use of synthetic drugs makes people go crazy,” Merle Staten, a freshman music technology and jazz major, said. ”I’ve seen people have trips off fake marijuana and it was bad.”
Although it is unknown if the recent escalation in crime around the District is linked to the increase of synthetic drugs use, the Howard University Campus Police Department plans to combat the use of synthetic drugs by saturating the entire campus with more foot patrols in an effort to prevent crimes. The Campus Police Department also intends to raise awareness of the dangers of synthetic drugs among students. “The police should be cautious of the situation,” said Kaya Camp, a freshman musical theater major. “Some of the drugs are legal, yes, but they should find the overall causes [of usage] to end the use of these various drugs.”
THE HILLTOP
NEWS
7
AUGUST 24, 2015
THE ERA AFTER OBAMA
FLICKR
2016 PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
Carmen Frost Staff Writer
E
ntering what seems to be an early debate season, we have been bombarded with a lot of information regarding the 2016 Presidential hopefuls. With a total of 17 Republican and five Democrat candidates making an official bid for their party’s nomination, it can be hard to keep up. Interestingly, two leading potential primary winners have familial ties to previous presidencies. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, is the brother of former President George W. Bush and son of former president George H.W. Bush, while former Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is the wife of former President Bill Clinton. Current voters have likely lived through the presidency of a Bush
and Clinton and may recall some of the more memorable moments of their respective terms, including President Clinton’s sex scandal and the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center during George W. Bush’s administration. Some may even remember Jeb Bush’s felon purge during his time as Florida governor that denied thousands of otherwise eligible voters the chance to participate in the Bush v. Gore election of 2000. The administrations of our childhood are back for second chance, but this time we are able to decide who will represent us. Take a look at both Clinton and Bush’s opinions on the U.S.’s most hot-button issues and decide for yourself who deserves to continue their respective familial legacy in the White house.
CLINTON
Her plan for a path to citizenship will grant undocumented immigrants who have not committed any crimes during their stay to remain in the country and earn full citizenship rights. Supports the Common Core State Standards and No Child Left Behind.
Was criticized for stating that “all lives matter” in a conference that occurred shortly after the Charleston, S.C. massacre. Clinton’s rhetoric has improved, but she has yet to present any concrete policy regarding police brutality or race relations.
Has expressed support for raising federal minimum to $12, calling it more realistic for most of the country, with higher living costs.
IMMIGRATION
EDUCATION
BLACK LIVES MATTER
MINIMUM WAGE
BUSH
Supports “earned” legal status for the 11 million people here illegally already, but not citizenship.
Has to take an official stance on student debt. Supports the Common Core State reading and math standards for K-12 institutions and ending social promotion (i.e. No Child Left Behind.) A strict proponent of “All Lives Matter,” Bush criticized Democratic candidate Martin O’Malley for apologizing for his use of the “All Lives Matter” slogan, stating that “if he believes that white lives matter, which I hope he does, then he shouldn’t apologize to a group that seemed to disagree with it.”
Has yet to take an official stance on minimum wage. Has gone on record advocating wages being left up to the private sector and kept out of the hands of the federal or state governments.
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
NEWS
did #
during tHe 1st repuBLiCan deBate? Commentary by
Aesha Atherley Staff Writer
w
ith the 2016 u.S. presidential election around the corner, the prospective candidates from each political party have been working on strategies to obtain the american public’s vote. the Republican party held their first GOP debate, hosted by Fox news, on aug. 6 in cleveland, ohio. Real estate mogul donald trump, former Florida gov. jeb bush, wisconsin gov. Scott walker, former arkansas gov. mike Huckabee, Florida Sen. marco Rubio, new jersey gov. chris christie, retired neurosurgeon
ben carson, kentucky Sen. Rand paul, texas Sen. ted cruz and ohio gov. john kasich were all in attendance. according to blacklivesmatter.com, the movement’s website, #blackLivesmatter movement began in 2012 after 17-yearold trayvon martin was shot and killed by george Zimmerman, who was later acquitted of the crime. the movement was founded to highlight and protest police brutality and racial violence. in my experience at Howard university, i have seen how much my fellow bison as well as the black community as a whole has rallied behind the #blackLivesmatter movement. what appalls me is that in the approximately two-hour
debate, the #blackLivesmatter movement and police brutality were discussed for less than a minute. Fox news moderator megyn kelly stated that according to the #blackLivesmatter movement, “overly aggressive police officers targeting young african-americans is the civil rights issue of our time,” yet it was brought up only once and only gov. walker was called on to speak on the issue. His answer also proved itself to be inadequate. He said nothing in regards to the evident racism displayed by some police officers. Instead, gov. walker emphasized ensuring that police officers “have proper training particularly when it comes to using deadly force.” the
governor also explained that for the police officers who didn’t do their jobs correctly, there are “consequences to show that we treat everyone the same here in america.” i did not know that treating everyone the same means that police officers can shoot and kill african-americans, only to get off with merely a slap on the wrist. a statistic shown during the debate stated that 8,500,000 people were talking about “racial issues” on Facebook, yet racial issues were only mentioned twice within the debate. during one of those brief mentions, dr. carson was asked about the issue of racial division in america. “when i take someone
into the operating room, i’m actually operating on the thing that makes them who they are,” dr. carson said. the skin doesn’t make them who they are.” it is all good and well to say something as positive as this statement, but the actions and views of the Republican party do not back it up. in the debate, there was reference to god and most of the Republicans claimed to be men of faith. to that i say this: why don’t you deal with the issue of police brutality and racial violence by advocating one of the greatest commandments within the bible? From matthew 22:39: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
¡Viva La Revolución! Maya King Staff Writer
b
y this december, americans can take advantage of the first commercial flights with direct service to cuba. many students including those of caribbean descent, are optimistic about the island’s future and the positive change american presence in cuba may bring. “we can be valuable to cuba and cuba can be valuable to us,” said Roxie pugh, a freshman international business major. “culturally [cuba] can be especially valuable, especially now that cuban-americans will be able to connect with their families without fear of repercussions.” when Secretary of State john kerry reopened the united States
now what’s next?
embassy in Havana, cuba on aug. 14, he recreated opportunities for trade, tourism and friendship with the country. His statement, “cuba’s future is for cubans to shape,” has incited a number of conversations among americans regarding the country’s relationship with america and how that relationship will evolve. “cuba is a fresh and new place now to most americans,” said asia blackman, a freshman engineering major from barbados. “everyone here wants to go there—to visit its beaches, explore its forests, and participate in all it has to offer.” on the other hand, Florida Sen. marco Rubio expressed concern, calling president barack obama’s decision to renew relations with his country of heritage “dangerous.” Sen. Rubio wants cuba to resolve issues, such as political
and human rights reforms and the return of u.S. fugitives in cuba, before the u.S. pursues diplomatic relations with the country. members of Howard faculty see the united States’ new relationship with cuba as a fresh learning opportunity for students. “the lifting of the embargo is a very positive thing on a most basic human level,” said dr. james davis, a professor of the department of world Languages and cultures at Howard university. “i see Howard students playing a major role in affecting change in cuba.” dr. maria Roof, a retired Howard university Spanish professor, believes cuba’s progress is reliant upon its people and their efforts. “if cuba allows itself to become just another tourist destination
in the caribbean, i believe it will lose its advances of the last 56 years,” said Roof. However, like many on Howard’s campus, the retired instructor is optimistic about what the future holds for the island nation. “Its first investments, in fact, have already begun,” Roof said. the lifting of the embargo represents a new era of research and exploration for everyone in the u.S. including Howard students and faculty. above all else, there is a strong belief among members of the Howard community that the mecca will continue its legacy of making history and affecting change by extending its international influence to Cuba.
THE HILLTOP
NEWS
9
AUGUST 24, 2015
Louis Stokes: Howard Champion, Longtime
Congressman and Civil Rights Icon Dies at 90
PAUL HOLSTON
AP PHOTO
Paul Holston News Editor
L
ouis Stokes, a prominent 15-term congressman, civil rights trailblazer and one of the key benefactors of both Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library and the Law Library at Howard University, died on Aug. 18. at the age of 90. His funeral will take place tomorrow, Aug. 25, at Olivet Institutional Baptist Church in Cleveland. “He was one that fought for [Black people],” said Cynthia Studevent-Rivers, executive assistant to the Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library and a longtime friend of Stokes. “I felt that if he didn’t think much about Howard, he would not have done what he did to make this
library happen.” Stokes accomplished numerous achievements during his lifetime, including becoming chairman of the House Select Committee on Assassinations that assessed the deaths of President John F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., honorably serving in the United States Army, and becoming a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Stokes was also responsible for securing $20 million in federal funding to build Howard University’s Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library and the Law Library. During the 30 years he served in Congress, Stokes was a strong advocate for better quality of the health in African-Americans. “He spoke the truth. He was a fair individual and he showed much humility,” Studevent-Rivers said. “He was a champion for Black
health, which is crucial on this campus with it being a historical black university.” As the nation mourns his passing, the foundations bearing Stokes’ name will continue to uphold his legacy. For the Howard community, Studevent-Rivers expressed that as long as the Louis Stokes Health Sciences Library stands, there is no need to mourn. “He has lived a long, long, wonderful life and you can only celebrate him. Just because his physical is not here, his spirit will live in this building,” she said. In a letter sent to student and faculty on Aug. 20, Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick describes Stokes as an ardent supporter of Howard University and its mission. “He was a staunch advocate for equal opportunity, education, and justice and a great friend
and champion for Howard,” said President Wayne A.I. Frederick. In July of this year, Stokes announce he was diagnosed with brain and lung cancer. He died peacefully with his wife, Jay, at his side during his transition. In a statement made after Stokes’ passing, President Obama discusses the legacy Stokes has left. “As a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and the first African-American to represent the state of Ohio in Congress, Lou believed deeply in fairness and the idea that every American should have the same opportunity to succeed,” President Obama said. “Lou leaves behind an indelible legacy in the countless generations of young leaders that he inspired, and he will be sorely missed.”
10
Kylie
& Cornrows
AUGUST 24, 2015
Diandra Bolton Variety Editor
L
ately it seems we can’t go a few weeks without an offensive instance of cultural appropriation flooding our newsfeeds. Whether it’s Allure Magazine’s oblivious afro tutorial or most recently Elle Canada publishing an article calling the dashiki “the new kaftan,” cultural appropriation is flooding our mainstream media. In this day and age, we are inundated with a variety of different cultures from the moment we wake up and check our Twitter feed to the those last minutes before you go to sleep while scrolling down your Instagram timeline. Consequently, it’s completely understandable if you think that bindi on an Indian chick is cute or your white friend Becky loves cornrows and you both want to integrate that into your personal style. What’s not ok is doing so without giving a single thought to the cultural significance of these traditions. It goes so much deeper than appearance. There are instances of successfully being inspired by a culture or social movement without insulting or taking credit for its creation. UK rapper/ singer M.I.A. included a variety of traditional cultural dances in her video for and when confronted by accusations of appropriation she took to Twitter to discuss and learn if this would be upsetting to those involved. Singer FKA Twigs has co-opted voguing, a gay subculture in New York City. The difference between these artists and much of mainstream media is that they chose to acknowledge the importance of the culture they emulate. Incidences like reality star
THE HILLTOP
Kylie Jenner’s cornrow picture on Instagram stem from the mainstreamand often white- media culture’s purposeful inability to understand black culture. White Americans often refuse to be responsible consumers of our culture. They love to commodify it and profit from it without giving a
shock at Minaj’s messages just shows once again how thick the blanket of white privilege is. What she failed to realize is it wasn’t a personal attack, Minaj begin referencing white culture and their hypocrisy as a whole. There is no solution except education, and that is an extremely
single cent, much less any credit to their inspiration. The same Americans who loved Taylor Swift’s music video filled with twerking black girls also refused to nominate Nicki Minaj’s Anaconda music video, also filled with twerking black girls including Minaj, for a MTV Video Music Awards. Minaj expressed her frustration via Twitter, and Swift
difficult thing to accomplish when mainstream media clings to their ignorance. It’s not like white Americans are rushing to take black history classes. Often the lack of any desire to understand the other cultures that they easily appropriate is frustrating and mind-boggling. This is shown perfectly Jenner’s lame reply to actress Amandla Stenberg when Stenberg called her
“When you appropriate black features and culture, but fail to use your position of power to help black Americans by directing attention towards your wigs instead of police brutality or racism. #WhiteGirlsDoItBetter” -Amandla Stenberg
variety
out on the cornrow debacle, using a mutual past boyfriend, Jaden Smith, as a dig. Instead of considering Stenberg’s well-said points that outline the consequences of cultural appropriation, Jenner’s reply was childish. However, there are many who fight the good fight and strive to break through white America’s wall of blissful ignorance. 16-year-old Stenberg is among many voices in our generation pushing back against cultural appropriation. Her insightful thoughts on the subject matter are shared to thousands of followers via social media, and her video “Don’t Cash Crop My Corn Rows” went viral. The video was even picked up and commented on by the mainstream media. Actress and singer Zendaya has also emerged as an advocate for black culture. In a recent Nylon Magazine interview, she revealed wisdom far past her 19 years. “In order to appreciate something, you have to know about it and understand,” she said. “You don’t just wear something just to wear it—you have to understand the history behind it. I urge people to take the extra step of knowledge and learn about things.” With young voices like these speaking out, it gives me hope for the future. They are utilizing their fame to people nationwide to educate them on this epidemic. Furthermore, being that they are younger, their audience is also younger. Teaching the youth that cultural appropriation is wrong will make a big difference in creating a new dialogue about how to properly exchange and consume culture that will hopefully be perpetuated through all future generations.
THE HILLTOP
VARIETY
AUGUST 24, 2015
Don’t get caught off guard!
11
Reya Roussel Staff Writer
People from all over the country and world meet up at Howard to get their education. This mix of culture and experience means you may need to decipher some new slang. Here are some terms commonly used by Howard students, so you’ll be ready to converse with a friend from anywhere.
bet (adj)
finesse (verb)
An affirmation meaning yes or that’s a plan Origin: TX “Let’s link up around 8:30.” “Bet.”
To beat the system Origin: DMV “She never even went to class but she finessed an A”
my guy (noun) darty (noun) Used to talk to acquaintances Origin: NY “My guy, what’s up?”
sice (verb)
To make one’s life better Origin: DMV “I only paid for wings, but the punchout worker siced me with fries and a drink too!”
12 (noun)
Synonyms: “The boys” The police Origin: Atlanta “Welp, 12 just pulled up. Party over.”
“That 2am McDonalds run was so clutch.”
To be discreet or subtle Origin: TX “I’m lowkey too tired to go to class.”
dead (adj.)
To be extremely amused; can be replaced on phones by the skull emoji Origin: social media “John just tripped lol. I’m dead.”
lit (adj.)
To be high energy, enjoyable or exciting Origin: NYC “How’s the party going?” “Girl, it’s lit!”
mad (adj)
At the right place, at the right time
lowkey (adj)
To purchase Origin: TX (Disputed origin) “Bout to hit the Bookstore and cop a new HU sweatshirt.”
HU SLANG An outside day party Origin: Howard “I can’t wait for Spring!” “Me either. I’m ready for darty season.”
clutch (adj) Origin: DMV
cop (verb)
Used to emphasize Origin: NYC “These mozzarella sticks are mad good.”
glo’ up (verb) To increase in overall greatness Origin: Chicago “We sure have glo’d up since freshman year.”
jawn (noun) Can be used to name any person place or thing Origin: Philadelphia “When are they turning on the AC? It’s hot in this jawn.”
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
vAriETy
Back-To-the-Mecca
Playlist
your editors at the Hilltop want to welcome you to Howard university with a back-to-the-mecca playlist! From the moment you roll out of bed for your first class to the Friday night turn-up after a long, hard week of classes, take this playlist with you to celebrate your first week at The Mecca.
“I LIVE TO CHA CHA” - D.R.A.M. “GO ALL NIGHT” - KEHLALA “EGO DEATH” - THE INTERNET “BACK TO BACK” - DRAKE “SWEETERMAN” - DRAKE “SO WHAT” - GUDBULL “SAUCE GIRL” - LI SAUCE “BACK THAT AZZ UP” - JUVENILE “679” - FETTY WAP “MARCH MADNESS” - FUTURE “WE ARE YOUNG” - DJ SMALLZ JERSEY CLUB REMIX “SUNDAY CANDY” - DONNIE TRUMPET AND THE SOCIAL EXPERIEMENT “BEFORE I LET GO” - FRANKIE BEVERLY AND MAZE
FLICKR
THE HILLTOP
vAriETy
AUGUST 24, 2015
13
I Wish, I Wish, I Wish... Sope Aluko Staff Writer
as a new class enters and another prepares to exit in true bison family spirit, seniors jump at the opportunity to help guide the freshfaced “baby bison” towards a path of success as they navigate their next four years at Howard. Read what five seniors wish they would have known as incoming freshman about taking advantage of the Howard experience and coming out on top. tierra Holmes, english and Health education double major, philadelphia, pennsylvania
bre’shae grandberry, psychology major, Spanish minor, chicago, illinois
“besides studying abroad and doing consortium or breaking the Howard bubble and venturing into the community, i wish i knew that it was okay to fail and i’m not referring to failing a class, which happens sometimes. i’m talking about all aspects of Hu life. don’t be like me. don’t doubt yourself before you even attempt to be president, secretary or start your own organization. don’t feel ashamed because you attempted to get a 4.0 and got a 2.5 your first semester. Don’t miss out on events because you think you can’t juggle a 18 credit course load and social life. don’t count yourself out before the process even starts, dude.”
ayanna Robinson, english and psychology double major, new york
“i wish i would have known more about networking and how things work at Howard. i spent a lot of time doing more work than i needed to simply because i didn’t take the time to meet the right people. navigating Howard becomes so much simpler once you know exactly where you need to go and when.”
“as an incoming freshman i wish i would have made it a priority to build relationships with my professors, advisors and other people on campus who can help with things beyond my undergraduate career. As a senior, I find myself looking for people in my field to give me advice on this “life after college” and to write letters of recommendations. Howard has some of the best professors, advisors and other faculty, who are more than willing to guide you through this journey. but it’s all up to you to reach out and make those connections.”
brandon palm, Supply chain management, atlanta, georgia “i wish i would have known that the Howard university network is so connected and able to open doors to any leadership position or job. if you want to achieve something, then chances are there is another person at Howard who has achieved it or working towards it. Having that person as a mentor will only put you in the same shoes. i also wish i knew that you can’t expect or predict how each year in school will turn out for you. your friends are going to change. Friends will drop out. You’ll take a job in a different field. You will even become a different person by your senior year, but the person you turn out to be will be a better person.”
prianca Lal, Human development& psychoeducational Studies, Sociology minor, milwaukee, wisconsin
“being a freshman can be scary and intimidating at times, but i would encourage incoming students to learn to embrace the people around them. Definitely be wise about who you associate with, but also know that the people you encounter can be some of the greatest people that you do life with!”
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
vAriETy
ALUMNI ALLEY: This
Imagine
COURTESY PHOTO
David Castain Contributing Writer
i
magine for one second that you had the option of waking up this morning in a place where dreams are manifested and realities are altered. a place where the impossible is made plausible by all who seek it. where stereotypes are shattered, odds are evened and underdogs become top dog. where possibilities are astronomical and will take you as far as your imagination can go. where your past does not dictate your future and the only limitations that exist are those set by your mind. a place so exclusive, every year only a few thousand people in the world ever have an opportunity to reside there. now what if i told you after a rigorous
selection process, it was an option for you, would you want to be there? good. because if you’re reading this, it’s no longer an option for you, it’s a privilege. welcome to Howard university, where the only rule is that you make your own rules. this is the opportunity of a lifetime and is about much more than earning a degree. if all you wanted was a degree then you may be in the wrong place. you could have saved some money by going to your local state school. Howard university is not just a degree; it’s a breeding ground for all things phenomenal. is your face next to be on the cover of Forbes magazine? are you america’s top model? will you be the next oscar nominee? or president of the united States? Howard will help
you discover that. Howard university acts as a catalyst for greatness and can catapult you towards success. you have a built-in incubator consisting of a strong community of believers who will support you, even when you don’t believe in yourself. this is boot camp for the real world and if your dream can survive here, it can survive anywhere. take full advantage of your Howard experience by seizing every opportunity that time permits. utilize the resources that are readily available. if what i’m saying sounds pretentious, feel free to ask a man who attended Howard university for only two years before it changed his life what Howard can offer you. you may know him as rapper, producer, actor and entrepreneur Sean “diddy” combs.
you can also ask david oliver, the world-class hurdler and olympic medalist. or naacp image award winner and grammy-nominated actress taraji p. Henson. maybe even nobel prize winning novelist, editor and professor, toni morrison. each and every one of us have a responsibility to uphold the Howard tradition and be great. Forget about what happened last year, because spending today thinking about yesterday will not make a better tomorrow. whether you are an incoming freshman, a graduating senior, a graduate student or somewhere in between, this is your time. get the most out of your Howard experience. who will you be? what will you do and where will you go?
HiRing@tHeHiLLtoponLine.com
SPOrTS
THE HILLTOP
AUGUST 24, 2015
15
HOWARD UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL TEAM LOOKS TO OVERCOME LAST SEASON’S OBSTACLES
B TO:
PHO
Nkechi Nnorom Sports Editor
t
he Howard university football team jumpstarted its season without even playing its first snap. Four of the bison’s games will broadcast on eSpn and its family of channels-a first in the team’s history. the bison will play appalachian State on Sept.5 in boone, north carolina. the game will be carried on eSpn3 live at 3:30 p.m. the following Saturday, the bison will travel to chestnut Hill, massachusetts to take on boston college, which will also be covered on eSpn3 live at 1 p.m. “this is great exposure for our football program and the university itself,” Head Football coach gary Harrell said in an earlier interview, “with the launch of our new logo and other things going on in athletics here at Howard, it could not come at a better time.” nevertheless, the bison football team has to improve if it wants to compete with some of the top-tier division 1 teams. with the
departure of greg mcghee, Howard’s 2014 starting quarterback who signed a contract for the b.c. Lions in the canadian Football League, who will the Bison use to fill the void of offensive production? coaches will look to redshirt junior quarterback jamie cunningham to replace mcghee. cunningham played in just six games last season, completing 1-of-1 pass attempts. Last season, mcghee led the team in total offense with 3235 yards and in rushing yards with 847.
S
ETIC
L ATH ISON
Furthermore, Howard bison have to tighten up their defense. the team was outscored 217-121 in the first half alone last season. However, this season will be one filled with adjustments. “we plan on stopping first half points by just coming out with more energy and not waiting until the other team hit us in the mouth,” said junior linebacker devin Rollins. “we have to create turnovers and put pressure on the quarterback and that will make us that much better of a defense.” other notable opponents for the bison include: Hampton university in the at&t nation’s Football classic at RFk Stadium on Sept. 18, morgan State in the chicago classic at Soldier Field on Sept. 26, and norfolk State in their Homecoming game on oct. 3.
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
BISON
SPORTS
VOLLEYBALL PREPARES TO CAPTURE
MEAC Nkechi Nnorom Sports Editor
C
oach Shaun Kupferberg is in his fourth season as head coach of Howard University’s Women’s Volleyball team. Since his first season, where the Lady Bison went 1-23, Kupferberg has built a fundamentally sound team that has made it to the playoffs two consecutive years, even advancing to the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference finals last season.
“We’ve built a strong reputation and aren’t going to surprise anyone now,” Kupferberg said. “Everyone knows that we are a fundamentally strong team that is getting better every year. Our expectations are to push the limit again and continue to improve.” After losing six key players to graduation, the Lady Bison were still named the preseason favorite to win the Northern Division title. Sophomore Khaila Donaldson and junior Katherine Broussard return to continue the team’s success. Donaldson led the team with 393 kills in the past season.
Broussard, who was the 2013 MEAC Rookie of the Year, led the team with 318 digs and notched 227 kills in the past season. “Khaila and [Katherine] are two high level players that can compete on any team in the country,” Kupferberg said. “Our players tend to get less respect when it comes to awards because we stress spreading the ball around, but they may be the two best outside hitters in the MEAC this year.” The Lady Bison are also welcoming some freshman standouts---Tamia Dockery, Courtney Dalton, and Bunmi
Okunade—who have the potential to catapult the volleyball team to the next level. In the past two seasons, the team has fallen to the Lady Pirates of Hampton University in postseason play. However, the Lady Bison have gained the experience necessary to overcome the roadblock and win the MEAC title. The Lady Bison start their regular season campaign against the Lady Eagles of American University on Friday, Aug. 28, in the D.C. Volleyball Challenge. Their first home opener is on Sept. 5 against Western Carolina.
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SPOrTS
THE HILLTOP
AUGUST 24, 2015
17
INTRAMURALS
GET A BOOST IN BUDGETS
Janaya Hampton Staff Writer
i
ntramural sports and recreational activities are two vital parts of a college campus that often attract students to the school. this year, Howard university reassessed its student activities fee allocation and decided to increase intramural sports’ and recreational activities’ budget. “it is important that Howard keeps everything leveled,” junior broadcast journalism major Sydney clayborn said. “an increase in funds for [intramural sports and recreational activities] shows that students really have a voice on this campus.” the increase in this portion of the budget shows the university’s will to make recreational activity a bigger priority. the new intramural sports and recreational activities budget will benefit
women’s flag football, women’s club basketball, 1867 basketball team, indoor soccer, club baseball and men’s lacrosse. most of the intramural sports teams at Howard university have competed on a national level, and some have even won championships. “it was a great experience being able to support [1867 basketball team] and build relationships with the coach and players,” erin daniels-issacs, former manager of the 1867 basketball team, said. “the increase in funding will provide them with money for new jerseys and practice uniforms, transportation and lodging which will allow more players to travel.” in order for the student activity budget to be adjusted, the president of the university and the board of trustees must approve the presented rates for student activities per student. the present rate for student activities is $125.00 per student. this year, the university has allocated 2.5 percent of the student
activities’ fee to intramural and recreational activities, which is $3.12 per student. compared to other aspects of the budget that were also increased such as the bison yearbook (12 percent), ugSa (15.5%), and HuSa (6.5 percent), 2.5 percent appears to be a small portion. However, it is an increase of almost .4 percent compared to past years, and it covers intramural sports team funding, general recreational equipment and facility improvements. “intramural activities are very important to the university, not just to student activities,” associate director for intramurals and Recreational Sports dexter Harris said. “intramurals provides an outlet away from the classroom for students and staff alike. it is an opportunity for socializing, and even more important, it provides an opportunity for our students to get in shape and maintain a high fitness level.”
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AUGUST 24, 2015
THE HILLTOP
CAMPUS
LADY BISON SOCCER LOOKS TO KEEP THE BALL ROLLING Jacob Bennett Staff Writer
A
fter finishing the season 13-9 overall and winning the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), the Howard University Women’s soccer team is ready to dominate the field. “It’s definitely a goal that we look to reclaim our title,” head coach Brent Leiba said. “It will be difficult, given the fact that our conference continues to get stronger, but we are certainly up for the challenge.” The Lady Bison were named the preseason favorite to clinch the SWAC for two
consecutive seasons through an annual poll voted on by coaches and staff members of the conference. “Last year’s seniors were a huge part of our foundation which translated into our success,” said Leiba. Although, seven team members graduated, six freshmen are stepping up. Coach Leiba acknowledged that the team may be young but pointed out that they have a wealth of talent and depth. He is excited to see the roles that returning players and incoming freshman will play. “The incoming freshmen have brought some diversity and talent to the team which is very exciting, and it will help us try to repeat
what we did last year,” sophomore midfielder Noelle McCullom said. Two players that Leiba anticipates being pivotal to the team’s success this season are returning mid-fielders, senior Dytria Ruddy and junior Sara Vaughan. Ruddy and Vaughan are both team captains. “The important thing is to keep focused,” Ruddy said. “After our performance last season there are great expectations, but we are no longer unknown to our fellow SWAC competitors and we expect them all to come back this year with a grudge.”
Serena Williams on the Verge OF MAKING History THE HILLTOP
CAMPUS
Nkechi Nnorom Sports Editor
N
ear the tail end of her career, Serena Williams has proven that she is a force to reckon with. Mixing unforeseen agility, quickness and hard-hitting precision, Williams creates a difficult defensive assignment for her opponents. On Aug. 31, Williams returns to the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York, where she has the opportunity to join an elite group of tennis superstars by winning the U.S. Open. This would make her only the fifth person to win all four Grand Slam titles-the U.S. Open, The Australian Open, The
French Open, and Wimbledon- in one calendar year. The last person to complete the Grand Slam sweep was Germany’s Steffi Graff in 1988. The Grand Slam sweep would add another luxurious piece of hardware to Williams’ 21 coveted titles. By winning the U.S. Open, Williams would also boast the title of the first African-American to accomplish this feat. Williams is coming off a 1-2 match loss against Belinda Bencic in the Rogers Cup in Toronto. However, Williams has proven countless times that one loss cannot extinguish her ability to win. During this upcoming tournament, Williams must hold on her service games by limiting double faults and increasing the percentage of first serves won. Furthermore, Williams’ two-handed backhand returns, a skill her coach Patrick Mouratoglou has
AUGUST 24, 2015
19
tidied to strengthen her game, must be accurate. With many of her opponents being a few years her junior, Williams needs to control the match by keeping her opponents deep in the court, counteracting the stars’ quickness. In a recent interview with CNN’s sports reporter Rachel Nichols, Williams said she is “very excited and blessed” to be playing in the upcoming the U.S. Open. On his Twitter, NBA star Kobe Bryant called Williams a ”different animal, but the same beast.” Throughout her wins and loses, she has proven herself to be a ferocious tennis master mixed with the grace of an accomplished winner. Another Grand Slam title victory for Williams will reaffirm the obvious--Serena is the blueprint of tennis player perfection.
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